Casts

What Is a Cast?

A cast is a hard bandage that keeps part of the body from moving so it can heal.

Why Do People Need Casts?

People get casts after a broken bone,
some surgeries, and other injuries.

What Are the Different Kinds of Casts?

Most casts are made of fiberglass. Fiberglass is a kind of plastic that is moldable
and dries hard. Some fiberglass casts are waterproof.

Less often, casts are made of plaster of paris. This white powder is mixed with
water into a paste. The paste hardens when it's dried.

Is There a Waterproof Cast?

Yes, there is a cast that can be worn in showers and pools. A waterproof cast is
a regular fiberglass cast with a different type of liner. Doctors use waterproof casts
only for some kinds of broken bones.